It’s 6 a.m. on a January morning. The house is quiet, you are going to brew some coffee and then nothing. No water. You check the sink, the shower, the laundry tub. Still nothing. That sinking feeling sets in as you realize Minnesota’s deep freeze may have turned your pipes into ice plugs. What you do next can be the difference between a simple fix and thousands of dollars in water damage.

Why Frozen Pipes Are So Dangerous

Frozen pipes don’t just stop water flow, they expand as ice forms, putting pressure on the pipe walls. When the ice finally melts, weakened pipes can burst, flooding walls, basements, and cabinets. Acting quickly, and correctly, is critical.

The Do’s of Thawing Frozen Pipes

Do these steps to reduce damage and restore water safely:

• Do shut off the main water supply before you begin, just in case a pipe has cracked.
• Do open the affected faucet to relieve pressure and allow melting ice to escape.
• Do apply gentle heat using a hair dryer, heating pad, or warm (not hot) towels.
• Do start thawing near the faucet and work your way toward the frozen section.
• Do keep heat moving—slow, even warmth is safest.

The Don’ts of Thawing Frozen Pipes

Avoid these common mistakes that cause bursts and fires:

• Don’t use open flames like torches, grills, or space heaters.
• Don’t pour boiling water directly on pipes, especially PVC—this can cause cracking.
• Don’t ignore hidden pipes in walls or ceilings; thawing blind can be risky.
• Don’t wait too long, the longer a pipe stays frozen, the higher the risk of failure.

When It’s Time to Call a Professional

If you can’t locate the frozen section, water won’t return, or you notice leaks after thawing, it’s time to call a professional. Dan’s Plumbing & Septic provides fast, reliable frozen pipe repair, emergency plumbing service, and winterization solutions to help protect your home. Our experienced team knows how to safely thaw pipes, repair damage, and prevent future freeze-ups before they start.

How to Prevent Frozen Pipes Next Time

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages
• Seal air leaks near sill plates and foundation walls
• Keep cabinets open during extreme cold

Maintain consistent indoor heat, even when away. Frozen pipes are stressful, but knowing the right do’s and don’ts—and having a trusted local plumber ready to help, can save your home from serious damage, so if your pipes freeze this winter, will you handle it safely or risk a costly mistake?